UFC President Dana White Confirms UFC 168 PPV Price Increase: ‘It’s Five Bucks’
UFC president Dana White confirmed that UFC 168: Weidman vs. Silva II on Pay-Per-View will cost slightly more than previous events.
The rematch will cost $49.95 for standard definition and $59.95 for high definition. The price will drop back down to $44.95 for standard definition and $54.95 for high definition immediately after the bout.
When asked why the promotion increased the price of a UFC Pay-Per-View event for the first time in six years, when the price was raised from $39.95 to $44.95, White said he wasn’t part of the decision making process. He said UFC co-owner Lorenzo Fertitta was behind the increase.
“Because some guys got together in the office and decided to do that. I don’t know, I didn’t determine it,” White said at the UFC on Fox 9 post-fight show. “It’s five bucks. Call some more friends, have them come over.”
Shortly after that comment, White said, “The economy isn’t getting any better, the economy is still horrible. People aren’t out there spending money like they used to,” when discussing the difficulty some of his fighters were experiencing in getting sponsorships. Still, White said he hasn’t heard anything negative about the price increase.
“I haven’t heard any feedback,” he said. “I’m sure a lot of people aren’t thrilled about it, but what are you gonna do?”
Luckily for fans, the price increase doesn’t apply to UFC.TV. UFC 168 will still cost $44.95 (SD) and $54.95 (HD) to stream via Chromecast or Apple TV.
UFC 168 will take place December 28 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Former middleweight champion Anderson Silva will attempt to win the belt back from current title holder Chris Weidman. Herb Dean will referee the bout, having officiated the first match at UFC 162 on July 6. Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Keith Kizer said he normally doesn’t recommend the same referee for a rematch, but he felt it would “actually be very appropriate” for Weidman vs. Silva II.
The co-main event will feature TUF 18 judges Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate in a title match for the women’s bantamweight championship. The main card will also feature Josh Barnett vs. Travis Browne, Jim Miller vs. Fabricio Camoes, and Dustin Poirier vs. Diego Brandao.
Heavyweight Shane del Rosario was expected to face Guto Inocente, but both fighters pulled out citing injuries. Prior to the scheduled fight date, Del Rosario suffered two sudden heart attacks and passed away on December 9.
